Discover nature with MDC at “Reel” time fishing event on June 7 in Columbia

COLUMBIA, Mo. — The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), in partnership with Bass Pro Shop, Mexico Bassmasters, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, invites families to discover nature at the 9th annual “Reel” Time with Kids free fishing event from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 7, at Bass Pro Shop Sportsman’s Center, 3101 Bass Pro Drive in Columbia.

Bait will be provided, as well as fishing poles for those who do not have their own. The event will also have educational displays, food, and drawings for prizes.

“This is a great opportunity to introduce kids of all ages to fishing,” said Brian McKeage, MDC fisheries specialist. “Fishing is a great sport, and a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors.”

“Reel” time fishing for kids is taking place during Great Outdoors Month, a state and national recognition of the benefits of active fun outdoors, as well as the annual free fishing days in Missouri. Each year, MDC designates the weekend after the first Monday in June as Free Fishing Days in Missouri to encourage people to sample the state's abundant fishing opportunities.

During Free Fishing Days, June 7-8, anyone can fish in the Show-me State without having to buy a fishing permit, trout stamp or trout park daily tag. Normal regulations, such as limits on size and number of fish an angler can keep, remain in effect during Free Fishing Days. Some private fishing areas still require permits on free fishing days, and trespass laws remain in effect on private property. Public fishing areas are available in every county in Missouri. Many state-owned fishing areas also have special facilities for anglers with disabilities.

For more than a million anglers, conservation makes Missouri a great place to fish. Across Missouri, fishing generates $665 million dollars in local economic benefit each year.

For questions about the event, contact McKeage at 573-815-7900. For more information about fishing regulations or other outdoor activities in Mid-Missouri, visit mdc.mo.gov/regions/central.

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MDC protects and manages Missouri's fish, forest, and wildlife resources. We also facilitate your participation in resource-management activities, and we provide opportunities for you to use, enjoy and learn about nature. Read more about our mission.